Aquatic Animal Welfare in Africa

Abstract

This factsheet enshrines the shared view of the African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and Ethical Seafood Research (ESR) regarding the welfare of aquatic animals. Taking into account the contents of key AU-IBAR guiding documents relating to aquatic animals including the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy and the Animal Welfare Strategy, this factsheet encompasses all uses of aquatic animals in Africa with a primary focus on capture fisheries and aquaculture. However, both parties recognise the important welfare issues facing aquatic animals in the so-called ‘ornamental’ trade. This factsheet aims to highlight the importance of aquatic animal welfare in Africa and raise awareness about the need for its preservation.